Five common myths about the ageing brain and body

[AussieNeil]

With CLL being a chronic illness, we tend to blame it for all our new health ills. But we need to remember that we are susceptible to the same health challenges as those without CLL (albeit at higher risk of infections - which can take longer to overcome, as well as some secondary cancers). Also, with 71 being the median age at CLL diagnosis, our membership is predominantly from an older demographic, so age related health changes are an added concern as we live longer with CLL due to better care and treatment options.

'The Conversation' is currently running a series of articles on health and ageing, with this one hopefully reassuring: theconversation.com/five-co...

Other articles in the series are available here:

theconversation.com/au/topi...

Neil

Photo: Galahs roosting at sunset

[cllady01 Former Volunteer]

Okay, Okay, I will get on with the exercising--once the pain allows it.

Good read, Neil.

[Jm954 Administrator]

I always say that there's nothing wrong with me except I have leukaemia! Not quite true now as I developed isolated systolic hypertension a couple of months ago (thanks Ibrutinib).

Although I'm 60 I'm training for a half marathon and don't see why I shouldn't do it. I only took up serious exercise when I found I had CLL and when people ask why I run I say 'because I can and tomorrow I might not be able to'. It makes me feel free and I forget about everything except the hard effort of running.

I think the point I'm rambling on about is that if you can do something, then you should (perhaps not a marathon) and that attitude is as important as physical health.

[Hidden in reply to Jm954]

Jm954 you are inspiring me! I am presently trying to get back to running after an 8 month break due to respiratory virus. I’m off work for time being and my focus every day is to exercise more to get strength back so that I can run. I read a book called Younger Next Year a few years ago and it clearly explained use it or lose it. I can be lazy at times but my goal each day is to try. Good for you tackling a marathon. 5 k is the most I’ve ever run in.

Enjoy.